Former Observatory Chief Proposes 35°C Heat Alert Threshold for Worker Rotations
Crhk · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
The Labour Department aims to complete its review of work heat warning standards together with the Hong Kong Observatory by this summer. Former Observatory Director Lam Chiu-ying has praised the initiative and proposed adopting Mainland China's "Regulations on the Management of Heat Prevention and Cooling Measures," using 35°C, 37°C and 40°C as thresholds for yellow, red and black work heat warnings respectively. Lawmakers and industry representatives have also shared their views on protecting outdoor workers during extreme heat.
Key Points
- Former Observatory Director Lam Chiu-ying proposes adopting Mainland China's temperature thresholds as work heat warning indicators
- Yellow warning at 35°C: arrange worker rotations and shorten continuous work hours
- Red warning at 37°C: outdoor work limited to 6 hours cumulative, suspend work during peak 3-hour heat window
- Black warning at 40°C: complete suspension of outdoor work required
- Legislator Lin Zhenxing suggests linking temperatures of 36°C or above to red or black warnings for simplicity
- Hong Kong Property Services Alliance Chairman Jin Weijiao proposes establishing more rest points for street cleaners
- Civil Aviation Workers' General Union's Li Yongfu recommends regional temperature indicators for locations like the airport
- Labour Department Director Hui Zesen states the goal is to complete the review with the Observatory this summer
- Long-term reference to wet bulb globe temperature as objective scientific measurement suggested
Why It Matters
Hong Kong experienced record-breaking high temperatures recently, leaving many outdoor workers feeling uncomfortable and questioning why only yellow warnings were issued. These proposed measures could establish a clearer, more protective framework for worker safety during extreme heat events. A standardized temperature-based system would be easier for the public to understand and for employers to implement consistently across different industries.
Hong Kong experienced record-breaking high temperatures recently, leaving many outdoor workers feeling uncomfortable and questioning why only yellow warnings were issued. These proposed measures could establish a clearer, more protective framework for worker safety during extreme heat events. A standardized temperature-based system would be easier for the public to understand and for employers to implement consistently across different industries.